China is set to drive global polystyrene capacity growth, with total additions of 1.21 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) expected by 2030, according to GlobalData.

The expansion is fueled by strong demand from packaging, electronics, and construction industries.

Key projects include Lianyungang Petrochemical’s 0.40 mtpa plant (2026) and Lianyungang Hongda New Materials’ 0.31 mtpa plant (2028) in Jiangsu province, along with PetroChina’s Qinzhou (0.30 mtpa, 2025) and Urumqi (0.20 mtpa, 2029) plants.

China is likely the only country accounting for all expected global polystyrene capacity additions through 2030, while India and Malaysia have announced smaller, unspecified projects.